Elevated fire risk as temperatures soar

With temperatures set to soar into the high 30s this New Year’s Eve, Victorians have been told to be prepared for fire.

“A wet winter and spring is now behind us, and December has been very dry in large parts of Victoria,” CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said.

“On hot, dry and windy days like the ones we are expecting this weekend, anyone in regional areas of Victoria, and even on the metropolitan fringe, needs to stay alert to conditions, make sure they have downloaded the VicEmergency app and stay informed.

“For anyone planning to travel this weekend, it’s really important to make sure you know which fire weather district you will be in and travel through.”

Mr Heffernan also urged Victorians to look at the fire danger ratings daily and if the fire danger rating is “severe”, reconsider your need to travel.  Don’t travel to areas with an “extreme” or “code red” fire danger rating.

Fire Rescue Victoria acting commissioner Gavin Freeman said grassfires posed a particular risk this summer, after a wet spring resulted in significant grass and scrub growth.

“Grassfires can move at speeds of up to 25km per hour and jump highways,” he said.

With many camping or visiting national parks, Forest Fire Management Victoria chief fire officer Chris Hardiman urged campers to be mindful of conditions and take care.

“It’s crucial the community works with us to prevent bushfires from starting and pays attention to campfire safety – unattended campfires can spread quickly and have devastating impacts on communities and the environment,” he said.

“Visitors to Victoria’s parks and state forests should be aware of all exit routes and any evacuation points.”